Diss High School students look for better ways to tackle climate change

Three students at a Norfolk high school have set up a climate change committee after being inspired by 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.

Erin Aldous, Mae Clark and Amy Adshead, all Year 10 pupils at Diss High School, came up with the idea to find better solutions to the climate change crisis.

Assistant head of Year 10 Christine Kelly said: “I am very impressed and delighted that the students have shown such interest in the effects of climate change and that they have worked on their own to set up all the various initiatives around the school and local community.”

Diss High School - An Environmental Committee have transformed their courtyard area into a garden for flowers and vegetables...PICTURE: Mecha Morton... (13366389)

She added: “This is the first of its kind in school. It has only existed for a month, but it has achieved so much already.”

The trio are planning to organise an eco-week to raise awareness of the impact climate change is having and ways to try to limit such changes, as well as fundraise to support particular environmental charities.

The group is actively encouraging their peers and staff members to try to reduce waste in school.

They have asked if students can bring their own reusable containers into school and, in addition, to organise litter picks. More recycling bins are being placed on the school site to allow students and staff to be more environmentally-friendly.

Year 10 members are also currently clearing out and repurposing a courtyard at the school.

They are planning to plant fruit and vegetables, as well as flowers, to attract more bees and other insects which are an invaluable part of the eco-system.

The youngsters are currently hoping for donations of plants, seeds, bulbs and any garden equipment to support their endeavours.

“We are very proud of them and want to support them in whatever way we can,” said Ms Kelly.

“The students are passionate and dedicated. It is wonderful to see how they have inspired so many other students to get involved, too.”

The students would also like to encourage the local community to be more climate conscious by opting for things in the supermarket made or packed in recyclable materials such as cardboard, glass and aluminium, and to recycle them.

Anyone wishing to donate plants or vegetables should call Diss High School on 01379 642424.